Topical compositions and methods for skin lightening

Abstract

Embodiments of the invention are generally directed to compositions useful for reducing pigmentation in the skin. The composition may further include other depigmenting agents such as nicotinamide and its melanasome transfer-inhibiting derivatives, 3,3′-thiodipropanoic acid and its tyrosinase-inhibiting derivatives, or resorcinol and its tyrosinase-inhibiting derivatives, in a topically acceptable vehicle.

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION[0001]The invention relates generally to cosmetic and dermatological compositions and methods for reducing pigmentation in human integuments. More particularly, the invention provides topical compositions and associated methods for treatment of hyperpigmentation or reduction of unwanted pigmentation. The compositions may be applied topically to skin to reduce pigmentation in the area of application.BACKGROUND[0002]The color of human skin is due primarily to the production of melanin by specialized cells in the skin called melanocytes through a process known as melanogenesis. The synthesis of melanin is a complex process involving several biochemical pathways. It is generally recognized that pigmentation may accompany inflammatory processes. Histamine is an agent involved in the inflammatory response which is reported to increase tyrosinase activity in human melanocytes, with the effects being completely inhibited by histamine antagonists such as famotidine. Histami...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0005]In accordance with the foregoing objectives and others, the invention provides compounds, topical compositions and methods for reducing pigmentation in human skin. Without wishing to be bound by any theory, it is believed that the compounds of the invention are histamine receptor (e.g., H1, H2, H3 and / or H4 receptor) antagonists effective to reduce histamine-induced pigmentation in human skin. In some implementations, new H2 receptor antagonists are provided. The compositions and methods may treat hyperpigmentation conditions, including those associated with UV damage, inflammation, and chronological aging, including without limitation treating, ameliorating, diminishing the appearance of, or preventing age spots, liver spots, freckles, mottled and discrete pigmentation, melasma and the like. The compositions and methods are also useful for reducing otherwise unwanted pigmentation, including overall lightening of the skin, as well as improving signs of chronological, environmental, or UV skin aging.

Problems solved by technology

However, the use of histamine antagonists to reduce pigmentation has received little attention to date.

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